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Supporting others during the Coronavirus Pandemic
You may have concerns about how others are coping with the current situation. Starting a conversation with someone around their mental health can feel daunting. You may be worried that you will say the wrong thing but remember saying nothing is far worse.
If you are concerned about someone then check in on them by phone or video call. It is important to stay connected.
Think about when is the best time to start the
conversation. For instance if they have young
children at home then it may be best to call them
when you know the children will be in bed or
if they are working from home then when they
finish work.
Some useful questions to ask may be:
• How are you feeling?
• Sometimes asking twice helps so that the other person knows that you genuinely want to know.
• How long have you felt like this?
• Is there anything I can do to help?
• What support do you feel you need?
Listen non-judgementally, without interrupting. It’s
ok to have silences, in fact silences can be good,
giving someone the time to gather their thoughts. If
someone has clammed up, summarise back what you
have heard, tell them that you’re listening and you
really want them to keep talking to you.
If you’re worried that someone may be feeling suicidal
then ask them, don’t be afraid to talk to them about it.
Call 999 if you think that there is an immediate risk or
111 if less urgent. You can also signpost the person to
the Samaritans or their own GP.
Small acts of kindnessDon’t forget little gestures can have a big impact. This may just be:
Ask someone if they need some shopping
Call a friend that you haven’t spoken to for a while
Tell a family member how much you love and appreciate them
Arrange to have a cup of tea and virtual catch up with someone you know
Help with a household chore at home
Arrange to watch a film at the same time as a friend and video call
Tell someone you know that you are proud of them
Tell someone you know why you are thankful for them
Send a motivational text to a friend who is struggling
Send someone you know a joke to cheer them up
Send someone you know a picture of a cute animal
Send an inspirational quote to a friend
Send an interesting article to a friend
Contact someone you haven’t seen in a while and arrange a phone catch up
Donate to charity
Lend your ear – call a colleague and ask how they’re finding the change in routine
Give praise to your colleague for something they’ve done well
Arrange to have a video lunch with a colleague
Send an inspirational story of kindness about what people around the world are doing for others to someone you know
Donate to foodbanks
Offer to skill share with a friend via video call - you could teach guitar, dance etc.
Offer support to vulnerable neighbours
Offer to send someone a takeaway or a meal
Make a cup of tea for someone you live with
Bake someone a cake and leave it on their doorstep
Send an inspirational
story
PMCOVID4 05/20
Police Mutual Assurance Society Limited, trading as Police Mutual, is an incorporated friendly society. PMHC Limited, trading as Police Mutual, is registered in England & Wales No. 03018474. Registered office: Alexandra House, Queen Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS13 6QS. For your security, all telephone calls are recorded and may be monitored
Call us 01543 441630 Visit policemutual.co.uk
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For more information about the products and services available from Police Mutual:
Think about ways you can pull together as a community at this time. There are lots of opportunities for volunteering. Think about ways that you can give back and offer your help.
The added benefit of helping others is that it is good for your own mental health and wellbeing. It can help reduce stress and improve your emotional wellbeing.
Small acts of kindness
In short, doing good, does you good.
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